In 1979, the Rhode Island Blood Center was established by the hospitals in Rhode Island as a private, not for profit agency to collect, test, and distribute blood products. Today, the Rhode Blood Center is a division of New York Blood Center and is among the nation's premium providers of blood products and services and an integral part of the Rhode Island community's health care system. As of December 2018, the Rhode Island Blood Center employs approximately 320 full- and part-time employees. Our employees are committed to the Blood Center's mission of providing a safe and adequate blood for patients within our community. We seek individuals who are caring and compassionate, who take pride in their work, and are looking for a rewarding experience. At the Rhode Island Blood Center, you not only have a job but also the opportunity to make a difference.

For more information about a career with us, please watch the video below:

“Career in Blood” video

This position is responsible for the execution of testing and quality control (QC) procedures following Standard Operating Procedures, as assigned. Testing includes routine donor testing in large batches, as well as component qualifications. This position is responsible for proper disposition of components based on test or QC results. This position also works with the Supervisor of Client Testing to ensure appropriate test menus are completed as ordered.

This position reports to the Laboratory Supervisors, Testing and Component QC and others as designated by the above.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

•High complexity testing of donor blood samples with proper technique and documentation according to the procedures of the Rhode Island Blood Center, carrying out all procedures in a reasonable time frame as determined by supervisory personnel.
• Labeling of blood components including proper checking and documentation according to the procedures of the Rhode Island Blood Center Laboratory.
• Performing and documenting quality control procedures on a regular schedule.
• Successful participation in proficiency testing and annual competency assessment programs.
• Recognizing equipment malfunctions and evaluating need for adjustment for repairs. Notifying Supervisor in writing of any equipment malfunctions or unacceptable quality control results, as established for each quality control procedure.
• Preparing samples for outside testing.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Efficient use of reagents and materials.
• Successful participation in proficiency testing and annual competency assessment programs.
• Participating in continuing education and in-service training.
• Reading and following official communications via laboratory policy memos, log book, and email.
• Reading of and familiarity with all applicable Rhode Island Blood Center Laboratory Procedure Manual and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Keeping as current as possible with new advances, theories, and procedures in blood banking through continuing education.
• Establishing attainable goals for self-development.
• Taking responsibility for certain programs and/or projects, as may be assigned.
• Providing the best customer service to all customers, both internal and external.
• Preparing biohazardous waste for shipment.
• Validating new test kits.
• Monitor environmental conditions of product/reagent storage and testing areas.
• Perform training of staff in areas deemed a Subject Matter Expert, component preparation and/or quality control procedures.

Educational Requirements:

MLT or equivalent ASCP certification required. Must meet testing personnel requirements as described in the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act of 1988 for Highly Complex Laboratory.

Lab Tech I = 2 year MLT degree

Lab Tech II = 4 year MT degree or equivalent – CLS, MLS, 4 year bio + MLT or BB

Must be able to lift up to 60 pounds. Must also be able to stand for long periods and sit, stand, walk and lift alternately throughout the duration of the shift.

Data entry skills preferred.

Schedule:

Third Shift 

4 x 10 hour days

Tuesday - Friday 

The proposed hourly wage for the Laboratory Tech I position is $27.66/hour.

The proposed hourly wage for the Laboratory Tech II position is $30.80/hour to $31.11/hour.

Offers made to an individual candidate will depend on a variety of factors, including experience, skills, and job-related education.